Using Video Games in Working With Children

Clinicians who work with kids have traditionally used board games and toys as tools to develop therapeutic relationships; engage a child in the therapeutic process; and explore dynamics of home, family, relationships, and school. Some clinicians now use video games in working with children, to develop relationships as well as board games and toys. This frequently consists of a child playing on the computer or tablet by himself and the clinician simply observing. While this strategy may encourage a child to come back and visit with the therapist, it has limited value otherwise. However, there are many other strategies for using video games, apps, and other digital media as tools to go far beyond enhancing a therapeutic relationship. Video game and app play in the therapy session is an excellent way to build skills, develop homework assignments, and explore the process of psychotherapy.

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It is our job at LearningWorks for Kids to help you find the best games and apps to assist in your clinical work with kids. Our approach goes far beyond simply using video games for building a therapeutic relationship. Our game guides contain specific meta-cognitive and generalization strategies to enhance the effectiveness of video games as teaching tools.

Articles and research

These articles can help you understand how to use video games/apps and technology in your practice: